Rams coach Sean McVay takes responsibility for Week 1 travel decision after loss in Australia
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay said the team's travel plan to Australia contributed to their 27-7 defeat by the San Francisco 49ers, while both clubs look ahead to Week 2 victories.
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay said the team's travel schedule to Australia was a mistake after the Rams were beaten 27-7 by the San Francisco 49ers in the season-opening game. The 49ers arrived in the country a week early to adjust to the time change, whereas the Rams flew in the day before the match and kept Pacific-time routines.
The difference in preparation appeared to affect performance, with San Francisco pulling away in the second half. After the loss, McVay acknowledged the error, joking that a "dumbass coach" had put the team in a bad spot.
"Sometimes you win and sometimes you learn, and sometimes you have a dumbass coach that makes travel decisions that put you in a bad spot," McVay said.
Wide receiver Davante Adams noted that the 49ers seemed more rested and ready, attributing the Rams' defeat to the travel plan. Both coaches have expressed frustration with the logistics of playing in Australia and hope future games will not require similar trips.
The Rams rebounded with a 28-6 win over the New York Giants in their next game, while the 49ers also secured a victory in Week 2. The two teams will not meet again until Week 14.